Our pups can become quite determined to have some of our special Thanksgiving dinner and treats. Even Heidi is determined to beg and receive some of our human food, going so far as to push her bowl to my feet!! However, not all the human food is pet-friendly, and it up to us to ensure their health and well being. Safety must be first! And we need to be careful and attentive to make certain that our furry family members won't become sick or even worse. We all need to remember to NOT give into their irresistible begging or my own desire to give them a "special" meal. None of us will be very thankful if they eat dangerous food, plants, or drinks.

Here are a few things we need to keep in mind:

Bones, raw or undercooked turkey, and heavy fats can cause distress in the digestive system. IA small bite of boneless, well-cooked turkey is okay. We have to remember that: 1) too much of anything isn't good; 2) raw or undercooked meats can contain salmonella bacteria; 3) bones are extremely dangerous. Check even the smallest pieces of turkey to make absolutely certain that there are no bones.

Small amounts are best. Sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, green beans, tidbits of turkey, a few drops of gravy, or baked bread on top of their regular meal makes it extra special. Please don't spoil your holiday. Unbaked yeast can become a life-threatening situation that endangers our pets' lives. The raw yeast in unbaked or under-baked dough creates gases that expand in the digestive tract and can cause bloat. Bloat is a real emergency that can only be treated with emergency hospital intervention.

Alcohol is life threatening. A drunk pet is NOT funny. Keep all drinks high enough so their long tongues can't reach inside the glasses. f you plan to bake Thanksgiving desserts, be sure your pets keep their noses out of the batter, especially if it includes raw eggs—they could contain salmonella bacteria that may lead to food poisoning.

Desserts are delicious but raw batter contains raw eggs which may contain salmonella bacteria and cause food poisoning. A smidgeon of baked pumpkin pie is okay!

Special Treats for our Special Pets. We can create a very specialmeal and occasion for our pets by buying them treats made especially for them. We can visit our favorite pet supply store and purchase a new, safe chew treat or toy. We can even stuff their hollowed toy with a healthy treat and give them hours of delicious enjoyment.

Please DO NOT overindulge our precious pets. Upset tummies, vomiting, diarrhea, bloat, and pancreatitis threaten their lives and it our responsibility to keep them healthy and safe.

Remember: If it isn't good for we, the human, it isn't good for our pets either!! Best - keep our pets on their regular diet throughout the entire holiday season.